MARYLAND FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
The state of Maryland's river systems are presently experiencing significantly lower streamflows across most of the monitored locations, with readings frequently falling below 50% of normal levels. This trend suggests a wide-reaching flow drought that may impact various water-related activities, with implications for both water enthusiasts and local ecosystems. Major rivers such as the Susquehanna, Patuxent, and Potomac are reporting diminished streamflows, with the Susquehanna River at Conowingo showing a current flow of 5100 cubic feet per second (cfs), a substantial reduction of 27.35% in the last 24 hours and standing at about 89.89% below the normal level. Similarly, the Potomac River shows a decreased flow near Washington, D.C. with a current streamflow of 2210 cfs, a slight decline from the previous day, and a gauge height of 2.87 feet, indicating potential impacts on recreational areas and water supply.
In areas popular for whitewater trails like the Youghiogheny River near Friendsville, flow rates are also significantly lower than average, with a current streamflow of 500 cfs and a gauge height of 3.08 feet, which may affect whitewater activities. Furthermore, low flows across the monitored sites, such as the North Branch Potomac River and the Monocacy River, which are reporting streamflows of 128 cfs at Steyer and 138 cfs at Jug Bridge respectively, highlight the widespread nature of the current low water conditions. The ongoing flow drought poses concerns for towns such as Cumberland, Frederick, and surrounding watersheds, which are experiencing reduced streamflows. The lack of significant increases in river levels also suggests that flooding is not an immediate threat; however, stakeholders and residents should remain vigilant, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall that could quickly alter the current situation.
Maryland's flow conditions are heavily influenced by its location along the Atlantic coast and the Chesapeake Bay, as well as its varied topography. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Major surface flows include the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers, which feed into the Chesapeake Bay. Reservoirs and dams such as the Conowingo Dam and Loch Raven Reservoir also contribute to the state's hydrology. The state's watershed includes the Chesapeake Bay watershed, which covers 64,000 square miles and includes six states and the District of Columbia. Snowpack in the Appalachian Mountains can also impact flow conditions in the state. Overall, Maryland's flow conditions are complex and influenced by a variety of factors.
Winter Storm Warnings
January 1 2026
Residents of Maryland, particularly those in extreme Western Allegany County and the Eastern and Western Garrett Counties, should exercise caution due to a Winter Weather Advisory and a Winter Storm Warning effective until 10 AM EST this morning. Light snow with additional accumulations of up to one inch and winds gusting as high as 45 mph have been forecasted. These conditions are expected to result in slippery roads and potentially whiteout situations, making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Please plan accordingly for the Thursday morning commute and be aware of the possibility of falling tree branches due to strong winds.